'Fan' who hurled their drink over Marianne Vos at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad WE identified by Belgian Police

The legendary Marianne Vos returned to top form last weekend, taking a stunning victory ahead of the current Rainbow Jersey holder, Lotte Kopecky at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad WE.

During the race however, the Team Visma | Lease a Bike star was the subject of some terrible scenes as a 'fan' at the roadside was caught by TV cameras hurling the liquid from his drink all over the 36-year-old, three-time world champion.

"I didn't know where it was, I thought it was at the Berendries. I did indeed get something over me. That's not part of it and it's a shame, but yes... it happened," lamented Vos in her post-race press conference when asked by the media about the incident.

Now though, a report by the local police in Geraardsbergen/Lierde, Belgium says they have identified the man in question. “Unfortunately, this wonderful sporting event was overshadowed by an incident in which Marianne Vos had a cup of drink thrown in the face by a spectator,” the local police said. “This incident sparked outrage within the cycling community.”

“Immediately after the incident, we took all necessary steps and acted decisively,” adds Chief of Police Patrice De Mets. “The perpetrator has now been identified. We have invited this person for questioning to take responsibility for his behaviour.”